froggie3ds's Full Review: Murad Acne Complex Starter Kit
I've been using Murad skin care products for 11 years. I've used all of the products in the Acne Complex Starter Kit as well as others made by Murad. People new to Murad should be aware that Murad has a *very* extensive product line catering to all skin types, not just acne prone skin. I discovered Murad through a professional esthetician during a time in my life when I had acne. In addition to the skin care line I started getting facials (with Murad products) with glycolic peels on a regular basis.
At the time I had moderate acne. It wasn't severe, but it certainly wasn't mild either. I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH-if you have very sensitive skin the products in the Acne kit will probably be too strong for you (however Murad has other products that would be appropriate). If you have very sensitive skin with occasional breakouts this is not the kit for you. The products in the Acne kit contain glycolic and salicylic acids. My skin is only moderately sensitive and I started using the products under the care of a professional. She also tailored my skin care regimen.
Throughout my teens and early 20's I tried many skin care lines, including high end brands like Clinique and Merle Norman as well as going to a dermatologist. The only products that ever made a noticeable difference were Murad. They were the only products that I stuck with in the long term. My skin was and still is very oily. Murad cleared up my acne without drying or damaging my skin. After using the products my skin felt clean and refreshed. Also, in my case my skin didn't get worse before it got better. It just got better. My skin looked healthy using the products.
I had such success with Murad that my mother and several friends switched to Murad with equal success. All had different skin types and bought products appropriate for their skin.
The Clarifying Cleanser acts as an antibacterial cleanser for your skin. It's fantastic for oily skin. It removes oils, dirt and makeup without stripping the skin. Some people think it smells like a medical product. I don't think I would describe it that way. But that's probably because I don't like products with added fragrance and perfumes.
The Exfoliating Acne Treatment Gel is really one of the most important steps. I think it made the biggest difference in clearing up my skin. It is acidic and I don't think it has much of a smell. You don't need a lot but it helps continuously clear out dead skin cells. This stuff will help give your skin a healthy rosy glow.
The Skin Perfecting Lotion is a nice, non-greasy and light moisturizer. It smells nice but not because of added perfumes or fragrances. It just smells nice. It also feels good on the skin. When you have oily skin you don't want to put heavy creams on your face. You won't feel like that when you use this product. It feels very light and smooth and it absorbs into the skin quickly and thoroughly.
I've honestly never been particularly crazy about the Acne Spot Treatment. It never seemed to do too much for me. For the purpose of a review I will say that it feels slightly gritty and smells mildly of sulfur. For the purpose of a kit I would prefer to see Murad include the Clarifying Toner. It's a product that really should go in this kit. I would recommend it if you have oily, acne prone skin. It tightens the pores without overly drying the skin the way Sea Breeze does. It's a great product to throw in your gym bag for after a workout if you don't want to go through your entire skin care regimen. The Clarifying Mask is also nice.
I had a baby 4 1/2 years ago. Pregnancy apparently cured my acne permanently. I still get occasional breakouts but nothing like what I had before. Over the past few years I cut back on buying Murad products because of the price. But my skin is looking a bit tired lately and so I'm in the process of switching back to Murad. I'm not buying the Acne Kit because some of the products in it don't suit my skin anymore. (In lieu of the Exfoliating Acne Treatment Gel, I'm using the same type of product for Normal/Combination skin; the Combination Skin Treatment.)
Murad's website actually has a smaller (30 day) kit for $29 which I would recommend if you want to try the products. If you like them check ebay and other places for prices. Also, be aware that none of the Acne kits come with full sizes.
What it is:This tin containing all you need to stop breakouts in their tracks - at home or on the go.What it is formulated to do:Sized for travel, thi...More at Sephora
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